The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Clarksburg

This guide assumes a single filer with the standard deduction. No dependents. No 401(k) contributions beyond the math below. Numbers are estimates based on 2023-2024 tax brackets.

1. The Verification Test

Your $100,000 salary is not what you take home.

• Gross Annual: $100,000
• Federal Income Tax: ~$13,838 (Marginal bracket: 24%)
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): $7,650
• West Virginia State Income Tax: ~$4,950 (Flat 4.95% rate)
• Estimated Annual Deductions: ~$26,438
• Estimated Net Pay (Year): $73,562
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): $6,130

Purchasing Power: $6,130 per month.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the $6,130 monthly net income:

• Needs (50%): $3,065

  • Rent (1BR Market Avg): $750 - $900
  • Utilities (Electric/Heating/Water): $150 - $250
  • Groceries: $400
  • Car Payment/Gas/Insurance: $600
  • Remaining buffer for health premiums/out-of-pocket medical.

• Wants (30%): $1,839

  • Dining, Entertainment, Hobbies, Travel.

• Savings (20%): $1,226

  • Emergency fund, investments, retirement.

3. Clarksburg Tax Context

West Virginia is a High Tax State relative to income.

• Vs. No Tax States (TX/FL/WA): You are paying $4,950 more annually in state income tax than you would in those states. Your take-home is $412 less per month.
• Vs. High Tax States (CA/NY): You are saving roughly $5,000 - $7,000 annually in state income tax compared to those locations.

The Trade-off: While the state tax is high, the cost of housing in Harrison County (Clarksburg) is significantly lower than the national average, often offsetting the tax burden.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes. It is well above the median household income for Clarksburg. You will live comfortably, with room for savings and discretionary spending, provided you do not have significant debt.

"Local income tax?"
No. Clarksburg and Harrison County do not levy a local income tax on top of the state rate. You only pay the 4.95% to the state.